Renewable energy hits landmark 1GW target

A surge in renewable energy solar parks in Devon has helped push the total electricity generating capacity in the South West past a landmark 1GW target.

Green power production in the region grew by more than 50% over the past year, a report has revealed.

Devon now has more than 13,000 solar projects, more than twice that of Cornwall, producing 50MW.

Proponents of the industry say last year's spike – which saw Devon and Cornwall's solar capacity more than double (120%), adding 178MW – must continue if the UK's 2020 target of producing 15% of energy from renewable sources is to be met.